Stress in America 2026: The stress of uncertainty

APA’s annual survey finds 77% of U.S. adults name cost of living as a significant stressor and 74% name the country’s future. Nearly half (47%) said they pulled back from at least one form of social engagement over the past year because of stress, uncertainty or feeling overwhelmed.

Among AI users, 49% reported conversing with AI as a friend and 47% using it in a role comparable to mental-health support; one in ten said they relied on AI more than friends or family for advice. The results connect financial and political strain to social withdrawal and changing forms of support.